Brumby Government commits to strengthening RSPCA

The Brumby Government has promised sweeping changes to animal welfare laws in Victoria.

In their policy announcement, they have committed to a greater policing of animal de-sexing, a review of penalties for acts of cruelty and increased powers for the RSPCA.

As with policy on alcohol and cigarettes, they would also enforce a minimum age of 18 for purchasing animals.

Victorian head of the RSPCA, Dr Hugh Wirth says he is happy with the proposal.

"Under the law as it is now, when it prepares animals for adoption, the RSPCA has to follow quite stringent requirements. That's not the same for pet shops and that's inequitable. What we've convinced the minister to do is make the code of practice related to pet shops identical to the code of practice for shelters and pounds. That will mean all animals sold will be de-sexed or have a prepaid voucher to ensure the animal gets de sexed, that it's micro chipped, properly vaccinated and a guarantee of a fortnight to three weeks if that pet doesn't work out or for some reason it has to be returned."

Labor will provide the RSPCA with $4 million over four years to help fund their inspectorate work and after a series of controversial puppy farms were closed this year, the organisation and local councils will have more power to shut them down.

Mr Wirth says he's confident that Labor will implement the policy if re-elected.

"It's an absolute promise, it's a commitment, and we'll hold them to it. And we have absolutely no doubt they will do what they say."

On the issue of granting licences for pet owners, Dr Wirth says while it hasn't been adopted by either party as policy, it's a work in progress.

"Absolutely, that's one battle we haven't won yet, it's been RSPCA policy for at least forty years to my knowledge, we just haven't won that round with the politicians yet. We will win of course."